December Nights returns to Balboa Park

‘Tis the season for December Nights, one of San Diego’s favorite holiday traditions. The annual celebration will return to Balboa Park on Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3.

The festive activities take place from 3 to 11 p.m. on Friday and from noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday. All museums at the park will be open and free for the public from 5 to 9 p. m. each night. Yep, those who show up can check out the Mingei International Museum, the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, The Japanese Friendship Garden and the San Diego Air & Space Museum at no cost, to name just a few.

One of the major highlights of the festival is the various cuisine to try around the park, featuring delicacies from all over the world. The House of Pacific Relations Cottages will showcase food available for purchase from Argentina, Scotland, Iran, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Puerto Rico, Israel, Spain and many more. Event-goers can also snack and sip adult beverages in the Prado Restaurant and Lounge and Panama 66, as well as in some of the museums.

There will be more than 20 different performances taking place each day, from musicals, to live concerts, to puppet shows and everything in between. For a full schedule of each day’s live entertainment events, click here.

Those who are looking to shop for the holidays will be able to find an eclectic mix of gifts at the dozens of vendors on site. Pick from paintings, crafts, toys, jewelry, clothing, handmade soaps, woodwork and more.

The event is all ages and free to attend. For more information, visit balboapark.org.